The Drive From Buford to Montgomery: How Long Will It Take?

If you're planning a road trip from Buford, Georgia to Montgomery, Alabama, one of the first questions you might have is how long it will take to get there. There are a few different routes you can take, and the driving time can vary based on traffic patterns. In this post, we'll break down the fastest and slowest options and give you an idea of how long your drive will take.

Fastest Route: via I-85 S

The quickest way to get from Buford to Montgomery is to take I-85 S. This route covers a total distance of about 193 miles, and under normal traffic conditions, it should take you around 3 hours to complete the drive. Peak traffic times could add an hour or more to your travel time, so plan accordingly.

Slowest Route: via GA-365 S and US-280 W

If you're not in a hurry and want to take a more scenic route, you can travel from Buford to Montgomery by way of GA-365 S and US-280 W. This route is about 25 miles longer than I-85 S, covering a total distance of approximately 218 miles. Because this route is less direct and often involves more rural roads, it can take up to 4 hours to complete the drive. However, it could also be a great opportunity to explore some of Georgia and Alabama's countryside.

Traffic Patterns

As mentioned above, traffic patterns can have a major impact on your travel time. On the I-85 S route, you're likely to encounter the most congestion around Atlanta, especially if you're traveling during rush hour. Plan to avoid driving through the city between 7-9am or 4-6pm if you can. The GA-365 S and US-280 W route is generally less busy, but there may be some traffic on the more rural roads, so check conditions before you head out.

Peak Traffic Times

During peak traffic times, the fastest route via I-85 S could take significantly longer. If you're traveling during rush hour or on a holiday weekend, plan for delays. You could even consider taking the slower, more scenic route if you're not under a time crunch. The GA-365 S and US-280 W route is less likely to be affected by peak traffic times, but it's still a good idea to check weather and traffic conditions before setting out.

Low Traffic Times

If you have some flexibility in your travel schedule, consider driving during off-peak times. Weekdays outside of rush hour are typically less busy. On the I-85 S route, try to avoid traveling through Atlanta on Fridays and Sundays, when there tends to be more traffic. If you're heading down the GA-365 S and US-280 W route, consider taking a weekday to avoid additional delays.

No matter which route you choose, the journey from Buford, Georgia to Montgomery, Alabama is an experience worth taking. Whether you plan to speed down the fast route, or slow down and take the scenic one, be mindful of traffic patterns and weather conditions to make the most of your road trip.